The idea of one day losing slugger Ryan Howard is worrisome, yet realistic, to Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel. The veteran manager has seen National League All-Stars - and slugging first basemen - Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder depart for the American League and the lure of the designated hitter.

Howard, a first baseman who is 20 months removed from Achilles surgery and battling knee problems, seems to be a perfect candidate to follow that path when his contract expires in 2016. But there's a scenario that could keep Howard and other aging, sore-kneed run-producers in the NL.

The new model of interleague play has ignited an argument about the future of the DH. Fifteen teams in each league - after Houston's move to the AL West this season - translate to one interleague series at all times. Teams are traveling to the opposing league more frequently and forced to adapt with or without a DH.

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